Several castles in Scotland were either built from new — Lochmaben, in Dumfriesshire — or substantially rebuilt and extended — Roxburgh, in the Scottish Borders — by the English during the Wars of Independence of the 14th century. But there is one famous English castle that can claim to be Scottish.

Researchers from around the world are teaming up to explore what lies beneath Aberdeen, Scotland's famous Mither Kirk. In a six-month excavation undertaken to shore up the church's foundations, they hope to learn more about its medieval history.

Bagpipe enthusiasts in the Atlanta, Georgia area will want to mark their calendars in anticipation of a concert by the Atlanta Pipe Band "a leading show and competition band in the south," according to their website.

The crumbling tower of the 15th century Newark Castle was the scene of one of the bloodiest incidents between the English and the Scots. Now the UK's biggest private landowner, the Duke of Buccleuch, has agreed to take on the task of preserving the monument.

The plans for a UK£180 million redevelopment, including offices, modern apartments and a five-star hotel, of the Canongate, an area dating back to 1128, mark a remarkable turnaround in the fortunes of this part of the Royal Mile.

The remnants of a building dating to 1150 and a garden wall have been discovered on the grounds of the Norton House Hotel, near Ingliston, Scotland. Archaeologists feel that the find has "national significance."

What did the Romans do for Scotland? Allan Burnett looks at the Roman legacy in the country from the Battle of Mons Graupius to the 3rd century, including an observation that the idea for the kilt may have come from the Roman toga.

The 2002 fire which devasted part of Edinburgh's Cowgate district opened up a treasure trove for archaeologists with the discovery of hundreds of 15th century artefacts, making the site on a par with medieval sites in London and York.

A group of William Wallace enthusiasts have set out to save and preserve the site where the Scottish hero was betrayed. The site, near Glasgow, has become a dumping ground and popular haunt of drug users.